InfoPFT / InfoPFtec

frequently asked questions

How does the InfoPFT program work?

For the InfoPet program to work, it must be coupled to the data acquisition program (measurement equipment), by data export in a compatible format. Coupling can be direct (the InfoPet program reads the exported data directly) or through a module (InfoPFtec) which converts the data exported by the measurement equipment to a common format (*.pft) which is then read by the InfoPFT program. This second method enables work with different devices and a single centralised diagnostic program. After obtaining the numeric and demographic data, the InfoPFT program presents them on the screen, the operator can then modify or add data, identify characteristic maximum flow curves, define the language of the report, etc…; and finally obtain the automated report, modify it as necessary and save it or print it out as required.

How can I acquire the program?

If the program is adapted to the measurement equipment, it will appear on the list of compatible equipment, in which case it is best to contact the supplier or representative of the equipment. The buyer will then be able to ensure the InfoPFT program is compatible with the measurement equipment software. If the measurement equipment is not on the list of compatible equipment or the software does not have a compatible export option, please contact the IT department of BiostecSL, the program distributor, by email to <informatica@biostecsl.com> and they will let you know what is needed to customise the program. When BiostecSL’s IT department receives the requested documentation, they will let you know whether it is possible to develop a made-to-measure InfoPFTec module and how much it would cost.

How is the program distributed?

The program is usually distributed through the distributors of the measurement equipment. The program is delivered on a pen drive, together with an InfoPFTec module and a series number in a text file. The program is always distributed in demonstration mode with a three month trial period. If the user decides to buy the program the price must be paid to the distributor, who shall license the program through connection to the website www.biostecsl.com. For other distribution methods, please contact BiostecSL’s marketing department by email to <comercial@biostecsl.com> or through the website (contact us).

What does my measurement equipment need to have to be compatible with the InfoPFT program?

Essentially, your equipment must have connection to a computer and software that processes the data and obtains functional parameters. The program must be able to export essential patient data (Name, Identification, age (or date of birth) sex, height, weight) and the essential parameters: FVC, FEV1, PEF, MEF75, MEF50, MEF25, SVC, ERV, FRC (pletismographic or dilution or both), DLCO, VA, VI, Raw, sGaw (or TGV), MIP, MEP. Basal, post-bronchodilation and prediction values selected by the user in the measurement equipment software. The parameters must be tabulated and/or identified by the corresponding abbreviations. The export option can be text (*.txt, *.rtf, *.csv) or Portable Document Format (*.pdf).

Does the program installed in demo mode have all the functions?

The program distributed for demonstration is fully operational. The only limitation is one of time (three months after it is first used). The program will let you know how much time remains every time you open it.

When the file is opened with InfoPFtec® or InfoPFT®, the patient’s data and the numeric parameters appear, but the flow-volume curve which was captured and saved does not.

The figure must be saved in the image folder selected in the setup of the program. Try the following:

1. Check that the Image file address is correct in the setup file (open “C:\ProgramFiles\Infopft\Setup.txt” with Notepad).

2. Check that the image folder address is in that file (2nd row).

3. Open image folder and check that the image name exists and corresponds exactly to the patient ID (the one that appears in the ID box)

4. Check that the image was saved in “*.jpg” format.

5. If you can’t find the saved image, repeat the capture and save it with the correct address and format.

I want to add a second figure (for example, RAw loop) to the report. Can I do that?

InfoPFR® only reads the figure for the Maximum Flows vs Volume curve. But you can easily add a second figure to the final report if you execute it in DOC format. You must:

• Select the figure and save it under a different name to the MFV curve (e.g. 123456Raw.jpg, 123456 is the patient ID)

• Insert a text box in the document in the appropriate size and place.